South Africa’s Department of Agriculture has partially relaxed its ban on poultry imports from Brazil to ease the growing concerns over food shortages and rising prices caused by the earlier suspension. Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen confirmed the partial lifting of the ban on poultry and poultry product imports from Brazil starting Thursday following the effective containment of the avian influenza outbreak in Brazil.
In May, South Africa implemented a ban on poultry imports from Brazil after an avian flu outbreak was reported in the Rio Grande do Sul region. The decision sparked concern among local producers, with major industry leaders like Eskort and various meat associations warning that prolonged restrictions could lead to serious consequences for the sector.
The move comes after consultations between South African veterinary officials and their Brazilian counterparts to evaluate the outbreak’s scope, the effectiveness of containment efforts, and the condition of other poultry-producing regions in Brazil. The Department of Agriculture stated that poultry products originating outside the affected zone are deemed safe for import and pose no health risk. However, the minister warned that the partial resumption of imports may be revoked if avian flu is detected in other Brazilian states.
South Africa has joined the list of nations easing restrictions on Brazilian poultry imports to relieve pressure on domestic markets. As one of the world’s top poultry exporters, Brazil supplies around 95% of South Africa’s demand for mechanically deboned meat (MDM), an essential ingredient used in everyday staples such as polony, viennas, and sausages.
The Association of Meat Importers and Exporters (AMIE) and the South African Meat Processors Association (SAMPA) have expressed support for the government’s decision. SAMPA noted that the move is expected to prevent significant shortages of affordable protein sources, while AMIE lauded the move, saying it will help stabilize the market and safeguard food security.
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